Modern Wood-Clad House Uses Limestone Walls for Passive Cooling in the Italian Alps

Austrian architects Casati expertly blended the traditional materials of the Italian Alps with modern design in Casa Prè de Sura, a house in Italy's San Martino in Badia. Surrounded by stunning views of the Dolomites mountain range, the wood-clad home is fitted with large boxy windows that project from the facade and frame views of the landscape. In sharp contrast to its wooden exterior, the modern interior is lined with textured limestone aggregate, a material that absorbs moisture and can cool the home during summer months.

From afar, Casa Prè de Sura fits the local alpine vernacular with its traditional gable roof and vertically laid wood panels. Upon closer inspection, however, the building’s contemporary influences become apparent: boxy windows bordered by light wooden frames jut out of and wrap around the facade and onto the roof at strategic locations. An accessible living roof built atop the garage doubles as a second-story patio.

Inside, richly textured limestone aggregate walls, likely mined from the surrounding Southern Limestone Alps, punctuate all three floors of the home. The limestone helps absorb moisture in the area and contributes to passive cooling. White walls and wooden accents complete the clean and contemporary vibe of the interior.